All About Australian Shepherds

About This Breed

Australian Shepherds have a medium build with a semi high-tucked belly. The ears are folded over the forehead. The tails are naturally bobbed or docked.

COLOR(S)

The Australian Shepherd is usually a merle color. Red and blue merle are the most commonly seen in this breed. The eyes of this breed are very distinctive; they are usually gold, brown or blue and almost always have some kind of flecks of color.

The Australian Shepherd is, in fact, not Australian at all. A popular theory states that the Basques herders who emigrated to Australia in the 19th century brought their sheep and their sheepdogs, some of which were Australian Shepherd dogs, with them. Others believe the breed, which is known for its versatility, originated in Turkey more than 5,000 years ago.

What is certain is that the Australian Shepherd Club of America was established in 1957. These dogs soon adapted themselves to the harsh conditions of the United States; some were even featured in film or used as trick dogs in rodeos. The American Kennel Club formally recognized the breed in 1993.

National Clubs and/or Organizations

United States Australian Shepherd Association

20140 Woodchuck RD

Sonora, CA 95370-8415

Fun Fact(s)

The Australian Shepherd is considered to be the dog that tamed the west.